Rare pair of pedestals decorated with grotesques
Carved and partially gilded wood
Florence, early 17th century
159 x 48 x 34 cm
Pedestals comparable in style and size are exposed in the Museo degli Argenti in Palazzo Pitti (inventory number: nn. 5875-5878, 5880-5887, 5889, 5897).
Each composed of a molded top resting on a tapered and fluted shaft, richly decorated with sculpted patterns, these gaines feature a quadrangular support in the form of a pillar narrowing towards its base.
A grimacing mascaron sits on the top of each pedestal, creating an "extravagance" that fits perfectly into the ostentatious architecture and decor typical of the aristocratic elites of the 16th and 17th century. The strong relief of these fantastic heads only increases their expressiveness.
This kind of sculpted supports was very common in the homes of the Medicis, who favored them to display their ancient and modern sculptures.
The sculpted pedestals...
Category
17th Century Italian Renaissance Antique Giltwood Shelves